Tsa 3Pk9 Certifications
Dogs for Defense has been authorized by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to conduct certification assessments of third-party canine teams who screen cargo on behalf of TSA’s regulated entities required to screen air cargo before it can be transported on aircraft. The authorization by TSA permits Dogs for Defense to evaluate third-party canine teams in order to determine if the teams meet TSA’s stringent standards required to screen cargo transported by air. Dogs for Defense received TSA authorization to conduct certifications in August, 2018.
To learn more about this program refer to the federal register on Third Party Canine Certifications.
Dogs for Defense is proud to be among the few selected companies authorized to perform TSA 3PK9-C certifications. Following the events of September 11, 2001 the airline industry has taken a close look at every aspect of the industry from passenger to cargo. Cargo carriers around the world are taking a closer look at how to ensure the safety of freight and the best methods for screening. Canines have consistently proven to be an effective method for efficiently screening cargo for explosive devices. X-ray machines are a proven method, but often add multiple steps to the screening process while machine sniffers have not proven as reliable as K-9s. The efficiency of the detection dog will likely see the K-9 based programs implemented around the world as the global cargo industry grows and the global use of K-9s to find explosives grows.
Dogs for Defense currently has 3 evaluators performing TSA 3PK9 certifications across the United States. All certifications are video recorded with a multicamera system. The video recordings ensure the integrity, validity and provide a lasting record. The recordings are made available to authorized entities.